Lead Chemical Process Specialist

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive package

Leadership role

Relocation assistance

Professional development

Long-term employment

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay is seeking an experienced Lead Chemical Process Specialist to join our established team. You will oversee design, optimization, and implementation of complex chemical processes on-site, mentor engineers, and drive safety and efficiency improvements.

The role demands a strong technical background, proven leadership, and hands-on problem solving in a manufacturing environment. Relocation support may be available for the right candidate, with long-term opportunities at

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 10+ years experience in chemical process engineering with leadership.
• Proven track record in process design, scale-up, and optimization.
• In-depth knowledge of PSM and environmental regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead the process engineering team in the development and improvement of chemical manufacturing processes.
• Oversee P&ID development, process simulations, and HAZOP studies for new and existing operations.
• Provide expert guidance on process design, equipment selection, and troubleshooting.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and regulatory standards in the Richards Bay facility.
• Manage process-related capital projects from conception through to commissioning and handover.
• Develop and deliver training programs for engineers and operators on process technologies and safety procedures.

Skills

Leadership

Process design

Scale-up

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

PSM knowledge

Regulatory compliance

Project management

On-site hands-on

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for an experienced and results-oriented Lead Chemical Process Specialist to join their established team in Richards Bay . This senior role is critical for overseeing the design, optimization, and implementation of complex chemical processes within our manufacturing operations. You will be responsible for mentoring junior engineers, ensuring the highest standards of safety and efficiency, and driving innovation in process technology. This position requires a strong technical background, excellent leadership qualities, and a hands‑on approach to problem-solving on‑site. You will be a key contributor to the operational success and technological advancement of the facility.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the process engineering team in the development and improvement of chemical manufacturing processes.
• Oversee the P&ID development, process simulations, and HAZOP studies for new and existing operations.
• Provide expert technical guidance on process design, equipment selection, and troubleshooting.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and regulatory standards in the Richards Bay facility.
• Manage process-related capital projects, from conception through to commissioning and handover.
• Develop and deliver training programs for engineers and operators on process technologies and safety procedures.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• 10+ years of experience in chemical process engineering, with a significant portion in a leadership role.
• Proven track record in process design, scale-up, and optimization of industrial chemical plants.
• In-depth knowledge of process safety management (PSM) principles and environmental regulations.
• Strong project management and leadership skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving abilities.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunity to lead significant process engineering initiatives.
• Relocation assistance may be available for the right candidate.
• Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
• Stable, long-term employment with a reputable company in Richards Bay .